Apprenticeships and Skilled Trades for Newcomers in Canada: A Complete Guide

Why Skilled Trades Are a Strong Career Path in Canada

The skilled trades are among the most in-demand career fields in Canada. An aging workforce, rapid infrastructure development, and strong economic growth have created a persistent shortage of qualified tradespeople across the country. For newcomers with trade skills or an interest in hands-on work, pursuing a career in the trades can lead to stable, well-paying employment with excellent long-term prospects. According to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), hundreds of thousands of new skilled trades workers will be needed in the coming decade.

Skilled trades careers span many industries, including construction, manufacturing, automotive, electrical, plumbing, welding, and more. Many tradespeople earn wages that are competitive with or exceed those of university-educated professionals, and the trades offer opportunities for self-employment and business ownership.

How Apprenticeship Programs Work

An apprenticeship is a structured training program that combines on-the-job work experience with in-class technical training. Apprenticeships typically last two to five years, depending on the trade. During this time, apprentices work under the supervision of a certified journeyperson and attend a technical training institution (usually a community college or polytechnic) for several weeks each year. Apprentices earn a wage while they work, and their pay typically increases as they progress through the program.

Each province and territory in Canada manages its own apprenticeship system. In British Columbia, apprenticeship programs are administered by the SkilledTradesBC (formerly the Industry Training Authority, or ITA). In Ontario, the system is managed through the Ontario College of Trades and the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. Despite provincial differences, the structure of apprenticeship programs is broadly similar across the country.

Steps to Become an Apprentice

To start an apprenticeship, you generally need to find an employer (called a sponsor) who is willing to hire and train you. You then register with your province's apprenticeship authority. Some people enter apprenticeships directly from high school, while others start after completing a pre-apprenticeship or foundation program at a college. Pre-apprenticeship programs provide introductory training and can make you more attractive to potential sponsors. In BC, you can explore available programs through the SkilledTradesBC website.

Red Seal Certification

The Red Seal Program is an interprovincial standard of excellence for skilled tradespeople in Canada. Earning a Red Seal endorsement on your trade certificate means your qualifications are recognized across all provinces and territories, allowing you to work anywhere in Canada without additional certification. Over 50 trades are designated as Red Seal trades, including electrician, plumber, carpenter, welder, heavy duty equipment technician, and automotive service technician.

To earn a Red Seal, you must complete your apprenticeship and pass the Red Seal interprovincial examination. The exam tests your knowledge of the trade against a national standard. Preparing for the Red Seal exam typically involves studying the National Occupational Analysis (NOA) for your trade, which outlines all the tasks, skills, and knowledge required. Many provinces offer exam preparation resources and practice tests.

Benefits of Red Seal Certification

Red Seal certification provides Canada-wide mobility, professional credibility, and often higher earning potential. Many employers prefer or require Red Seal certification, and it can be a significant advantage when applying for jobs or bidding on contracts. The Red Seal is also recognized internationally, which can open opportunities for Canadian tradespeople abroad.

Foreign Tradesperson Assessment

If you are a newcomer who already has trade qualifications and experience from another country, you may be able to have your credentials assessed and potentially challenge the certification exam without completing a full Canadian apprenticeship. Each province has its own process for assessing foreign credentials. In British Columbia, SkilledTradesBC offers a trade equivalency assessment process where your foreign training and experience are evaluated against Canadian standards.

The assessment typically involves submitting documentation of your training, education, and work experience, and you may be required to complete a practical skills assessment or additional training to address any gaps. If your qualifications are deemed equivalent, you may be eligible to write the certification exam (including the Red Seal exam) directly. For more information on getting your credentials recognized in Canada, read our credential recognition guide.

In-Demand Trades in Canada

Some of the most in-demand trades in Canada include electricians, plumbers, welders, carpenters, heavy equipment operators, industrial mechanics (millwrights), HVAC technicians, steamfitters and pipefitters, automotive service technicians, and sheet metal workers. Demand varies by region, with construction-heavy provinces like British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario generally having the greatest need. The Job Bank of Canada provides detailed labour market information for each trade by region, including job prospects, wages, and educational requirements.

Expected Wages in the Skilled Trades

Wages for skilled tradespeople in Canada are generally strong. Journeyperson wages vary by trade and region, but many trades offer hourly rates between $30 and $50 CAD, with some specialized trades exceeding $60 per hour. Apprentices start at a lower rate (often around 50 to 60 percent of the journeyperson rate) and receive scheduled increases as they advance through their training. Overtime pay, shift premiums, and union benefits can significantly increase total compensation. For an overview of job searching in Canada, see our job search guide for newcomers.

Apprenticeship Programs in British Columbia

British Columbia offers a wide range of apprenticeship opportunities through SkilledTradesBC. The province has designated over 100 trades and occupations under its industry training system. BC also offers a number of financial incentives for apprentices, including completion grants, tax credits, and tools grants. The Government of British Columbia actively promotes trades training as a key part of its economic development strategy.

Financial Support for Apprentices

Apprentices in Canada may be eligible for Employment Insurance (EI) benefits during their in-class technical training periods. The federal government also offers the Canada Apprentice Loan, which provides interest-free loans of up to $4,000 per period of technical training, and the Apprenticeship Incentive Grant, which provides up to $1,000 per year for the first two years of an apprenticeship in a Red Seal trade. Upon completing a Red Seal trade, apprentices may also receive the Apprenticeship Completion Grant of $2,000.

Resources and Next Steps

Pursuing a career in the skilled trades is an excellent option for newcomers who are ready to learn, work hard, and build a stable future in Canada. Whether you are starting fresh or bringing years of international trade experience, there are pathways available to help you succeed. Explore opportunities through SkilledTradesBC, connect with local trade unions and employer associations, and take advantage of the many financial supports available to apprentices.

For personalized help navigating your options, try our AI Newcomer Navigator, browse our blog for more newcomer guides, or learn about WelcomeAide and how we support newcomers across Canada. You can also read our guide on working as an international student if you are considering combining education and trades training.